UK Woman Amazed by Wildlife at South African Garage Stop

• A European woman shared a TikTok of wildlife she saw during a petrol station stop in South Africa
• She admitted that her UK friends thought she’d live among animals when she moved to Cape Town, which she recognised as an ignorant view
• The video sparked conversation as people appreciated the mix of everyday living and natural beauty in the country

South Africans related to a UK woman’s viral TikTok after she spotted wildlife during a routine petrol station stop.

On 15 September 2025, TikTok user @taraberwin posted a video that caught the attention of many with its surprising perspective on South African life. Tara, who recently moved from the UK to Cape Town, admitted that when she first shared her relocation news, her friends imagined she would be living in a game reserve surrounded by animals. She explained this was an ignorant stereotype about South Africa and that city life is very different.

Read also

"It's a bit weird": South African woman abroad for 5 years discusses culture shocks after return to Mzansi

However, during a road trip, Tara stopped for a bathroom break at a petrol station and was stunned by the scenic view right next to it. She captured the sight of local wildlife nearby, something she described as both unexpected and breathtaking. The post quickly gained engagement as many viewers related to the experience of finding natural beauty in the most ordinary places.

A road trip moment with a surprise view

Tara’s video resonated with people because it highlighted the contrast between outside perceptions of South Africa and the reality of daily living. While not everyone lives next to animals, the country’s landscapes still offer moments of wild beauty.

Her post also added to the conversation about how outsiders often misunderstand life in South Africa. What started as a quick pit stop turned into a memorable moment that she wanted to share with her followers, proving that sometimes even the most routine stops can bring the most surprising encounters.

Read also

American stunned after watching 'Beauty and the Bester,' South Africans ashamed: "Our family secret is out"

Mzansi reacted to the video

The Black Pimpernel wrote:

"Do also tell them about the racial poverty & inequality you see. That’s also South Africa."

Kruger Photos commented:

"Hope you're enjoying your exploration of this beautiful country. Greetings from Malelane. 🎉"

Wayy2 said:

"Lol, that’s my home town. 😂😂 I’m in London."

Jannie Fritz wrote:

"It's a place called Alzu Petroport on the N4 to Nelspruit or Kruger National Park, etc. In case some don't know. But people like me who live in the area do know about it. 💯"

Ant said:

"Best in the world. 😄"

Lolo commented:

"One big game reserve would be fantastic, wouldn’t it? 😂"

kelssdx wrote:

"They got the best toilet view. 🥺 Amazing garage stop."

Monica Mogane said:

"Alzu Mpumalanga, the province of the rising sun."

Check out the TikTok video below:

3 other Briefly News stories about nomads

• A woman from South Africa who is working in America told people some of the experiences she had.
• A woman from Atlanta, Georgia, in the United States, relocated to South Africa and shared what she spent per month.
• A South African woman who was an immigrant for several years recently came back, and she opened up about her experiences.

Source: Briefly News